Born June 29, 1919, in Kingsburg, California, he began his entertainment career as a rodeo clown and cowboy. Transitioning to film in the early 1950s, he became known for his distinctive voice and rugged, comedic persona. He gained fame for roles in Westerns and comedies, most notably as Major Kong in "Dr. Strangelove" (1964). With over 150 film and television appearances, his career spanned four decades, leaving a lasting impact on American cinema. He passed away on December 8, 1983.